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Airbnb Wants Homeowners to Install Surveillance to Crack Down on Parties

News Epic Stays
by Eben Diskin Feb 26, 2020

In an attempt to put an end to unauthorized wild parties in its listed host properties, Airbnb is encouraging hosts to install surveillance equipment. The equipment, which can be attached to ceilings or walls, would monitor decibel levels and alert the host’s smartphone when the noise gets too loud.

As part of its new “party prevention” campaign — which also includes banning “open-invite” parties or events — Airbnb is offering hosts discounts on three monitors, with one even able to sense changes in motion, temperature, and humidity. According to Airbnb, the goal of the campaign is to limit irresponsible behavior and reduce damage to homes.

“We want to help you protect your space, maintain the privacy of your guests, and preserve your relationship with neighbors,” says the company’s website. “This means helping you detect issues in real time.”

Although the equipment does not record sound, only registers noise levels, even those in the security community believe it’s a step too far. CyberCare UK told The Times that “people expect privacy in houses and hotels; you wouldn’t expect to be monitored,” and described the devices as “creepy.”

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